1 Day in Ghent
Where Medieval Meets Hipster in One Overpriced Waffle
Only have 1 day in Ghent? Perfect. That’s just enough time to get lost in the city’s canals, climb a medieval tower, eat a bucket of fries, and still question your life choices by sundown.
📍 Morning: Canal Views, Castles & Coffee
Start 1 day in Ghent With: Korenlei & Graslei
It’s Ghent’s postcard moment – rows of historic houses lining the canal like they know they’re better than you. Snap your pics early to avoid the influencer crowd.
Next: Gravensteen Castle
A real medieval castle with torture devices and rooftop views. €12 entry, or free if you’re tiny and sneak in behind a group.
Coffee Break: Mokabon or WAY
Locals swear by Mokabon. Hipsters swear by WAY. Choose your personality and proceed.
🥖 Lunch: Fries With a Side of Regret
Try: De Frietketel or Frites Atelier
Belgian fries are a religion. Pick your temple. De Frietketel = student vibes, giant portions. Frites Atelier = fancy, photogenic, overpriced – but that mayo? Divine.
🎨 Afternoon: Art, Chill, and a Graffiti Alley
Stop at: STAM or MSK Ghent
Into history? Go STAM. Prefer Van Eyck & dramatic art? Hit MSK. Hate museums? Skip ahead.
Graffiti Street (Werregarenstraatje)
A narrow alley where spray paint goes to party. Legal, messy, and very Instagrammable.
Bonus: Patershol
Cute cobblestone quarter that says “authentic” without screaming it. Quiet, charming, great for digestion walks.
🍽️ Dinner: Something Belgian, Probably in a Beer Sauce
Options:
- Du Progres – classic Belgian dishes, good for first-timers
- De Graslei – views + food = tourist trap, but a tasty one
- De Appelier – veggie-friendly with low-key vibes
Or just grab a waffle and pretend it’s dinner. No judgment here.
🌙 Evening: Belfry Bells & Canal Lights
Climb the Belfort Tower (if it’s still open)
Great views, unless you’re afraid of heights or medieval stairs.
End the Day: Evening Canal Walk
The city glows at night. The reflections in the water make it look like you know how to take photos. Bonus: the tourists are mostly asleep.
🎒 Quick Tips for Your Ghent Blitz
- Get a city map – or don’t. Getting lost is part of the charm when you stay 1 day in Ghent.
- Don’t call it “Gent” if you can’t pronounce it
- Cash isn’t king – cards work almost everywhere
- Book ahead for popular restaurants, or pack snacks and pretend you’re flexible
🧭 Related Posts
❓FAQ – 1 Day in Ghent Edition
🕰 Is 1 day in Ghent enough?
Enough to fall in love? Yes.
Enough to see everything? Absolutely not.
But it’s perfect for medieval vibes, canals, fries, and your camera roll.
🍟 Where should I eat?
Skip the tourist traps and head to Frites Atelier or Balls & Glory for a modern twist on Belgian classics. Or just grab a cone of fries and sit on a canal like a local.
🚉 How do I get to Ghent?
Take the train. Seriously. The Ghent-Saint-Peter’s station connects easily from Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp.
Check Belgian Rail for schedules.
🧀 What’s the deal with that cheese candy?
That’s “neuzekes” (cuberdons), Ghent’s most controversial treat. Locals love them. Tourists are confused. You’ll probably regret it, but hey, it’s cultural.
⛪ Do I need to book anything in advance?
- Gravensteen Castle: Better book tickets ahead in peak season.
- Boat tours: Usually walk-in friendly, but weekends = queues.
- Food tours: If you’re serious about waffles, book one.
🧻 Are the public toilets as bad as people say?
Not great, Bob. Bring coins, tissues, and low expectations. Or just time your café stops wisely.
🎒 Can I store my luggage somewhere?
Yes, because no one wants to drag a suitcase over cobblestones. Use the lockers at Gent-Sint-Pieters Station or try a luggage service like Nannybag if you’re feeling fancy.
🌧 What if it rains?
Congratulations, you’ve unlocked the authentic Belgian experience. Duck into STAM Museum, Bookz & Booze, or just embrace it with a wet selfie at Gravensteen Castle. read 30+ Fun Things to Do in Belgium When It Rains – Your Ultimate Rainy Day Escape Plan
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